Launched in 2016, the Huawei Honor 8 positioned itself as a compelling choice for mid-range smartphone users seeking a premium feel without the flagship price. It targets users who want a balance of performance, camera capabilities, and design aesthetics. The device was noted for its dual camera setup, which aimed to provide better photography experiences in various lighting conditions.
This review draws on benchmark results from Geekbench and user feedback collated from multiple tech review sites and community forums, offering a well-rounded view of its performance and user satisfaction. The metrics provided by UL Solutions enhance insights into real-world usage scenarios, focusing on usability and reliability.
Overall, the Huawei Honor 8 offers a mix of attractive aesthetics, decent performance, and solid camera capabilities. While its battery life and software updates might leave some users wanting, its design and features still make it a value for the target audience. However, potential buyers should be aware of its limitations compared to more contemporary models.
How does the Honor 8 perform in day-to-day tasks?
The Huawei Honor 8 is equipped with the HiSilicon Kirin 950 processor, which yields a Geekbench score of 353 in single-core performance and 1027 in multi-core scenarios, reflecting its competency for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. While it performs adequately for general use, heavy multitasking or gaming may strain its capabilities due to its 3GB or 4GB RAM options.
Comparatively, competitors like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4, with its Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 chipset, may offer better performance in graphics-heavy applications, though the Honor 8's benchmark scores are reasonable for its price segment.
Is the camera performance on par with expectations?
The dual 12 MP rear camera setup on the Huawei Honor 8 provides solid photography capabilities, particularly in well-lit environments. Its f/2.2 aperture allows for decent low-light performance, although images can exhibit some noise at night. In comparison, competitors like the Motorola Moto G5 Plus offer similar camera specs but with different processing software that may yield superior results in specific scenarios.
Users appreciate the bokeh effect that the dual camera can achieve, adding versatility for portrait shots, but this can sometimes be hit or miss, leading to expectations that aren't always met.
How long does the battery last in real-world usage?
The Honor 8 houses a 3000 mAh battery, which typically offers a day’s worth of usage with average settings and moderate use. However, users have reported that heavy use, including gaming and video streaming, can deplete the battery significantly faster, sometimes struggling to last through a full day under these conditions.
In comparison, similarly priced devices like the Galaxy A5 (2017) often provide better battery efficiency, making them preferable for heavy users who prioritize longevity.
Does the build quality match its aesthetic appeal?
The Huawei Honor 8 features a sleek glass body with a premium feel, indicative of Huawei's efforts in design for the Honor lineup. Its 5.2-inch Full HD display provides vibrant colors and clear graphics. However, users have noted that while the design is elegant, the glass back attracts fingerprints and smudges, necessitating frequent cleaning.
Compared to competitors like the OnePlus 3T, which boasts a metal unibody construction, the Honor 8 may feel less durable, especially for users known to drop their devices.
How does the software fare in terms of user experience?
The device launched with Android 6.0 and has experienced subsequent updates, yet many users express frustration regarding the pace of updates. Compared to competitors like the Google Pixel line that consistently delivers timely updates, the Honor 8 may lag behind, affecting the user experience in terms of security and new features.
While EMUI offers various customization options, some users find it less intuitive and cluttered compared to stock Android experiences, which can be a deciding factor for those seeking a clean software experience.
Pros & Cons
- ✅ Attractive design with glass back and 5.2-inch Full HD display.
- ✅ Solid camera performance with dual 12 MP setup offering bokeh effects.
- ✅ Decent day-to-day performance for typical users, as reflected by 1027 multi-core score.
- ✅ Expandable storage option with microSD support up to 256 GB.
- ❌ Battery life struggles under heavy usage, failing to provide full day performance regularly.
- ❌ Glass back prone to fingerprints and smudges, requiring regular maintenance.
- ❌ Slow software updates compared to competitors, leading to potential security concerns.
- ❌ Camera performance can lack consistency in low light conditions.
How It Compares to the Competition
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 — Offers better performance in gaming due to Snapdragon 625.
- Motorola Moto G5 Plus — Comparable camera specs with potentially better software processing.
- Samsung Galaxy A5 (2017) — Superior battery efficiency for heavy users.
- OnePlus 3T — More durable metal construction and faster software updates.
Who Should Buy This & Who Should Skip It
Buy it if: Ideal for users who value design and performance in a mid-range smartphone. Those who primarily use their device for social media, light gaming, and photography will find it suitable. Budget-conscious consumers wanting a quality camera experience should consider it.
Skip it if: Those who require extensive battery life and timely software updates may be better served by alternatives. Users seeking high-end gaming capabilities should look towards more powerful devices available on the market today.
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